The Himalayan Cobra Lily (Arisaema consanguineum) is an exotic woodland perennial admired for its striking, hooded flowers featuring purple-brown and white stripes. This non-GMO Asian Jack-in-the-Pulpit variety produces long narrow leaves grouped in umbrella-like whorls, adding bold architectural texture to shaded garden beds. Thriving in moist, humus-rich woodland soil, it is a standout focal plant for shade gardens, containers, and naturalized forest landscapes.
Features
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Dramatic striped flower spathes with cobra-like form
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Non-GMO Asian Jack-in-the-Pulpit species
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Perfect for shaded beds, woodland landscapes, and large containers
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Architectural foliage with umbrella-style leaf clusters
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Thrives in moist, humus-rich soil
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Long-lived perennial once established
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Excellent specimen plant for collectors and ornamental gardeners
Specifications
- Common Name: Himalayan Cobra Lily, Asian Jack-in-the-Pulpit
- Scientific Name: Arisaema consanguineum
- Plant Type: Perennial (tuberous)
- USDA Zones: 6–9 (protect in colder climates)
- Season: Spring foliage; late spring to summer bloom
- Height: 18–36 inches
- Bloom Color: Purple-brown with white striping
- Foliage: Narrow umbrella-like whorls of green leaves
- Heirloom: Yes
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Organic: Not certified organic
- Light Requirements: Partial shade to full shade
- Soil Preference: Moist, rich, humus-based, well-drained soil
- Water Needs: Moderate, consistent moisture
- Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
- Heat Tolerance: Medium (requires shade)
- Cold Tolerance: Good with mulch protection
- Plant Spacing: 12–18 inches
- Seed Longevity: 1–2 years stored cool and dry
Planting Guide
- Sowing Method: Start indoors for best results.
- Seed Preparation: Cold stratify for 8–12 weeks to improve germination.
- When to Plant:
- Start indoors in late winter or early spring
- Transplant outdoors after frost in cool shade
- Sowing Depth: 1/4 inch in moist, well-draining soil mix.
- Germination Time: 30–90 days depending on conditions.
- Light Requirements: Keep in partial to full shade.
- Soil Conditions: Use humus-rich, loamy, well-drained soil.
- Watering: Maintain consistent moisture; avoid waterlogging.
- Maintenance:
- Mulch to retain moisture and protect tubers in cold regions
- Mark planting location to avoid disturbance
- Remove old foliage after it dies back in fall